Chicago turmoil over principal oboe

It is reported by John von Rhein that the Chicago Symphony Orchestra has refused tenure to Alex Klein, the principal oboe, at the end of his probationary period.

The Brazilian virtuoso held the seat  from 1995 to 2004 when he was forced to retire with focal dystonia, a disability that affected two fingers of his left hand. His return last year was greeted as a personal victory over a debilitating condition, a triumph of the human will. During the season his artistry has been praised several times by Riccardo Muti, the music director.

The CSO’s decision to withhold tenure was communicated to Alex Klein last month. It is now being questioned by some members of the orchestra and by Klein’s attorney, who is demanding that the CSO clarify its reasons.

Neither side will comment until the process is resolved.